Harvest pumpkins before hard frost
Leave 2–4 inches of stem attached
Handle pumpkins gently to avoid bruising
Cure pumpkins in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place for 7–14 days
Keep pumpkins out of direct sunlight during curing
Wipe off dirt with a dry cloth
Do not wash pumpkins with water
Store pumpkins in a cool, dry, dark location
Keep pumpkins off the ground on cardboard, wood, or straw
Space pumpkins apart for airflow
Avoid storing pumpkins near apples, bananas, or other ripening fruit
Check pumpkins regularly for soft spots or mold
Remove damaged pumpkins immediately
Keep pumpkins away from moisture and condensation
Protect pumpkins from freezing temperatures
Use a diluted bleach solution on tools and storage surfaces before handling pumpkins
Apply a food-safe preservative or pumpkin spray if desired
Keep carved pumpkins refrigerated when not displayed
Replace carved pumpkins every few days
Use battery candles instead of real flames in carved pumpkins